Rigathi Gachagua’s recent call to sack a journalist over political differences is not just wrong—it is dangerous. When a top leader tells a media house like Kameme FM to fire someone for not supporting his views, it stops being normal politics and becomes intimidation.
The media is supposed to be independent. Journalists are not there to support politicians. Their job is to inform the public, ask hard questions, and hold leaders accountable. By targeting people like Martin wa Janet, Gachagua is sending a clear message: agree with me or lose your job. That is not leadership—it is pressure and control.
This kind of behavior shows a bigger problem. It is petty politics where leaders care more about loyalty than truth or professionalism. Good leaders should bring people together, not scare them into silence. Calling for someone to be fired just because they disagree with you is unfair and irresponsible.
The danger does not end with one journalist. If politicians start deciding who should work based on political support, many sectors will be affected. Today it is the media. Tomorrow it could be teachers, civil servants, or business people.
Kenya has worked hard to build a free and independent media. That freedom should be protected, not threatened. People should be free to speak, disagree, and think differently without fear.
Leaders like Gachagua need to understand that democracy is not about everyone agreeing. It is about allowing different opinions to exist without punishment.
